Archaeologists Discover 250-Year-Old Kiln on Thomas Jefferson's Monticello Estate
Archaeologists have uncovered a 250-year-old kiln on Thomas Jefferson's Monticello estate, where enslaved people and indentured laborers fired bricks used in the construction of Monticello. The discovery was made on the East Lawn, close to the main house, as part of ongoing archaeological surveys. The kiln dates back to Monticello I, the first iteration of Jefferson's home built between 1768 and 1782. This find provides new insights into the construction techniques and labor practices of the era, contributing to a fuller understanding of Monticello's historical significance.